Book Review: Failed State by Sam Freedman
Overloaded. Overpowered. Overdrive. These are the three key areas for the dysfunction of the UK state identified by Sam Freedman in his illuminating and timely book Failed State. There are many books which have outlined the issues with Westminster and politics, some which which have been reviewed on this site such as How Westminster Works…and…
Book Review: Follow the Money by Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson, head of the influential Institute for Fiscal Studies, sheds light on the complex world of British economics in “Follow the Money.” Revealing the intricacies of taxation and government spending, Johnson advocates for cautious, incremental change over radical solutions. His book also highlights critical issues like military spending, climate change, and an aging population…
Book Review: ‘Code of Conduct’ by Chris Bryant
The last few years in British politics have been marred by scandals, from lobbying to sexual misconduct and lies. Chris Bryant’s ‘Code of Conduct’ exposes the structural issues within Parliament and offers practical solutions. He delves into standards regimes, All Party Parliamentary Groups, and the public’s eroding trust in politicians. The book not only diagnoses…
Book Review: ‘Keir Starmer’ by Tom Baldwin
The Labour Party has only had three leaders win majorities in General Elections in its 124-year history. Keir Starmer could become the fourth. “Keir Starmer” by Tom Baldwin investigates his upbringing, career, and leadership. While he’s been successful in transforming the Labour Party, questions arise about his principles. The book reveals Starmer’s humble beginnings, his…
Book Review: ‘How Westminster Works … And Why It Doesn’t’ by Ian Dunt
Westminster is often referred to as the ‘Mother of Parliaments’, something to be admired and venerated and a system that (along with centuries of colonial oppression) we exported in various ways around the world. It is easy to assume that behind the recently restored clocktower of Big Ben the cogs of Parliamentary democracy run as…
Politics with Alex 